Guide to Failing to Comply with Traffic Signs

This offence covers many different scenarios from driving through a red light or going through a no entry sign to overtaking on double or single solid white lines. If you are accused of driving on hatched areas this will also come under this offence. Many of the offences can also overlap with careless driving. Any decision on the appropriate charge would depend on how bad the driving was at the time.

Do I need an NIP (Notice of Intended Prosecution) for failing to comply with traffic signs?

Yes, there is a requirement for an NIP for failing to comply with traffic signs unless one of the exceptions apply. Please go to our NIP guide for further information.

Defences

For these offences there are many possible defences including being pushed into a position where you are in contravention of the traffic sign. For red lights that are stuck on red, that may be a defence that you can rely on. Successfully relying on a defence is often dependent on identifying relevant facts, knowledge of the law and expertly putting evidence to the Court. We recommend you seek legal advice if facing this charge from our team of motoring experts. They will assess your case, advise on defences that may be available and represent you at Court.

Punishment

Fine up to £1,000, 3 penalty points and discretionary disqualification from driving.

Disclaimer The contents of these pages are provided as an information guide only and are limited to offences committed in England and Wales. No responsibility is accepted for any errors, omissions, or misleading statements on these pages or any site to which these pages connect, including any feature or aspect of such site or pages, whether provided by Motor Defence Solicitors or by any organisation, company or individual. No mention of any organisation, company or individual, whether on these pages or on other sites to which these pages are linked shall imply any approval or warranty as to the standing and capability of any such organisations, company or individual on the part of Motor Defence Solicitors.